Selected 3rd overall in 2011 by the Chicago Sky, Courtney Vandersloot became a force on the court instantly. With over 422 games played, she’s consistently delivered, proving why she ranks 3rd on the WNBA’s all-time career assists list. But it’s not just the numbers that define her—it’s her resilience, determination, and passion for the game. Vandersloot’s success isn’t an overnight story; it’s one deeply rooted in her upbringing.
Growing up in Kent, Washington, a neighborhood filled with kids her age surrounded Courtney, all eager to play. This environment fueled her competitive spirit from an early age. She wasn’t just playing basketball; she was running, jumping, and competing in various sports, setting the stage for her future. “I was always in the mix,” she once said, referring to her childhood days. This sense of competition, along with her family’s unwavering support, became the foundation for her incredible career.
Family background
Her parents, Bill and Janet Vandersloot, were instrumental in nurturing her love for sports. Bill, dedicated to his daughter’s passion, built a basketball court in their backyard, giving her the perfect space to hone her skills.
Janet, on the other hand, was equally supportive, sharing a deep love for basketball with her daughter. Tragically, Janet passed away in June 2024 after a battle with cancer. The bond between mother and daughter was incredibly close, with Courtney often speaking about how her mother’s influence shaped her both on and off the court. Courtney also has a sister named Kelsey.
When Janet’s health began to decline in 2022, Vandersloot faced the tough decision of stepping away from basketball. Yet Janet’s positivity kept her going. Despite her hectic schedule, Vandersloot flew back and forth to Washington, juggling games and family time. It wasn’t until May this year that she started missing games to spend more time with her ailing mother.
“We’re wanting to do our best to play for her because she’s a huge part of this team and we can’t wait for her to come back.”
– Sabrina Ionescu on Courtney Vandersloot pic.twitter.com/sj70TPPuiR
— New York Liberty Videos (@SNYLiberty) June 21, 2024
Throughout this emotional journey, Vandersloot’s team at Liberty stood by her side. Head Coach Sandy Brondello encapsulated the team’s support, saying, “We are all in this together.” In June, Liberty honored Janet with a moment of silence at Barclays Center, while the crowd chanted “Sloot, Sloot!” showing the deep connection for her.
Courtney Vandersloot’s basketball journey
Before Vandersloot became a household name, she dominated the courts at Kentwood High School. During her senior year, she averaged an impressive 26 points, 7 assists, 5 rebounds, and 5 steals per game. Her stellar performance helped Kentwood achieve its best finish in the state tournament at the time, securing a third-place spot — just a glimpse of what was to come.
As Vandersloot’s talent became more apparent, she found herself playing for Gonzaga, where she didn’t just blend in—she shined. There, she earned the title of WCC Player of the Year three times, alongside three WCC Tournament MVP honors. Her consistency and dedication further solidified her reputation as a force on the court.
In 2011, her efforts paid off when she was selected third overall in the WNBA Draft by the Chicago Sky. Since then, she has become a linchpin for her teams, leading the league in various stats and making multiple All-Star appearances.
Now with the New York Liberty, Vandersloot is still going strong, averaging 7.0 points, 5.0 assists, and 2.8 rebounds per game. Her ability to balance playmaking with scoring makes her one of the most reliable point guards in the game today. With each game, she continues to leave her mark on the league and inspire the next generation of female athletes.
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